Information on Zadar with single trip travel insurance from Essential Travel
Located on the lovely Dalmatia coast, Zadar is 3,000-year-old town surrounded by beaches, islands and national parks. With a history dating back to the 9th century BC, it is full of historic legacy and today is a popular holiday spot for Croatians and international tourists alike.
Getting there
Zadar-Zemunik International Airport is eight kilometres from Zadar and is connected to Zagreb Airport with daily flights. Split Airport is an alternative, 150kms away. You can make transfers by bus from either airport.
By car, most people will come either from the capital, Zagreb, or from Italy on the scenic coast road which takes in Trieste and Rijeke. The town is connected by railway line to Zagreb and the rest of Europe via a line to Knin, and buses run to all the major western European cities. Additionally, Zadar is connected by a ferry with Ancona in Italy and with Rijeka. The ferry trip between Ancona and Zadar takes seven hours. By hydrofoil, it is three hours.
Info on Zadars Key attractions
most tourists to Zadar are looking for some sun and relaxation on the many gorgeous beaches. Some of the best include: Punta Bajlo, Kolovare (the main city beach), Vitrenjak, Borik and Diklo. Those who love sailing can rent a boat and head to one of the hundreds of nearby islands. Only fragments of the Roman forum remain, but the square still serves as the centre of town. From here, you can easily walk to the 9th century church of St Donat and the intriguing Archaeological Museum.
Out and about
the Zadar region is home to a staggering five national parks: Paklenica, Kornati, Plitvica Lakes, Krka Waterfalls and Northern Velebit. There are also several towns of interest in the area. Nin features the Little Church of St Kriz, dating from 9th century and known as 'the smallest cathedral in the world'. There is also an archaeological collection with two reconstructed Liburnian vessels. Meanwhile, Biograd is quaint, with a local museum with exhibits from a sunken ship. The city of Pag is graced with St Marys Cathedral, with a lace shaped rosetta.
Special mention should be made of Plitvica National Park, not because the Croatian war of independence sparked here, but due to its stunning beauty and extraordinary hues as a dozen turquiose-coloured limestone lakes tumbled into one another through pristine forests, creating an area of unique and unbeatable beauty. The park is a 90 minute drive from Zadar.
Leisure Options
a fine selection of cafés, bars and clubs are located on the peninsula, the centre of the city. There are plenty of decent international restaurants, along with numerous local taverns where you can try some of the local specialities. This area also serves as the main shopping district, offering a collection of simple street stalls and modern malls.
